Substitute Senate Bill No. 282, also known as Public Act No. 26-111, aims to enhance the care and maintenance of graves of wartime veterans and establish a notification process for municipalities regarding these graves. The bill repeals and replaces Section 27-123 of the general statutes, mandating that the chief executive authority of each city or town appoint a committee of three veteran citizens to ensure that veterans' graves are suitably cared for and maintained. If the costs for this maintenance are not covered by private individuals or cemetery trustees, the city or town is responsible for these expenses and is authorized to appropriate funds for this purpose, including applying for money available under section 19a-308b.

Additionally, the bill repeals and substitutes Section 19a-308, allowing selectmen in towns with neglected burial grounds or cemeteries to clear and maintain these sites. It also establishes a neglected cemetery account, transferring $100,000 from the General Fund to support municipal maintenance of these sites. Furthermore, the Commissioner of Veterans Affairs is required to create an online form for individuals to report neglected graves, and must notify the relevant municipal authorities within seven days of receiving such reports. This comprehensive approach aims to ensure that veterans' graves are properly maintained and that municipalities are informed and supported in their efforts to uphold these responsibilities.

Statutes affected:
Raised Bill: 27-123
VA Joint Favorable Substitute: 27-123
File No. 155: 27-123
APP Joint Favorable: 27-123
Public Act No. 26-111: 27-123